Vibrant, healthy trees can add life to your home or business's landscape. However, trees can also become hazardous if they overgrow, become diseased, or are damaged by storms. When a tree grows too close to your house, driveway, pool, or other structures on your property, it can pose a significant safety risk and should be removed as soon as possible. Here are 4 signs that your tree is a safety hazard and needs to be removed:
Leaning Trees
A tree that is leaning too far to one side indicates that its root system may be decaying or is no longer able to support the tree's weight. This can lead to the tree toppling over during a wind storm, which could cause serious property damage and potential injury.
If there are powerlines running near the tree, it is even more dangerous and should be removed immediately. A professional arborist can assess the tree and determine whether it can be salvaged or must be removed.
Cracks in the Trunk
Major cracks in the tree's trunk can indicate that it is weak and may be prone to breaking. If the branches of the tree are already dead or damaged, those areas are even more likely to break off. It is best to have a professional contractor evaluate the tree and recommend whether it should be removed for safety's sake.
You can check for cracks in the trunk by inspecting it from all sides and standing back to look at the tree's overall shape. If you notice any major cracks or if the tree is leaning heavily to one side, you should contact a professional immediately.
Fungal Growth
When trees become diseased or infected with fungi, they can become dangerous. Fungal growth can cause decay of the tree's trunk and branches which can result in them breaking off easily. In extreme cases, diseases like Dutch elm disease could kill off entire trees in just a few years.
If you notice any signs of fungi such as discolored bark, mushrooms growing at the base of the tree, or dead branches, it is best to have an arborist evaluate and suggest a course of action for removal if necessary.
Bare Branches
When you notice that a tree has thinning or bare branches, it is likely in severe distress. The tree may not produce enough nutrients or moisture to support new growth and can become unstable over time. A tree specialist can determine if the tree can be saved with corrective pruning and fertilization treatments, or if removal is necessary.
When it comes to your family and property's safety, don't take any chances with hazardous trees. Contact a local hazardous tree removal service to learn more.
